(n,k) rule
A cell is regarded as confidential, if the n largest units contribute more than k % to the cell total, e.g., n=2 and k=85 means that a cell is defined as risky if the two largest units contribute more than 85 % to the cell total. The n and k are given by the statistical authority. In some NSOs [national statistical office] the values of n and k are confidential.
Senses
Sense 1
A cell is regarded as confidential, if the n largest units contribute more than k % to the cell total, e.g., n=2 and k=85 means that a cell is defined as risky if the two largest units contribute more than 85 % to the cell total. The n and k are given by the statistical authority. In some NSOs [national statistical office] the values of n and k are confidential.
References
- NIST CSRC GlossaryJan 05, 2026(n,k) rulehttps://csrc.nist.gov/glossary/term/n_k_ruleNIST states most site information is public information and may be distributed or copied, except material marked as copyrighted; attribution requested. Verify per-document markings before quoting.Source: NIST CSRC Glossary (csrc.nist.gov).